Wayland climate committee backs DPW grant, advances EV van and charger applications

WAYLAND — March 17, 2026 — Wayland Energy and Climate Committee backs DPW stormwater grant and advances EV charging plans. Chair Ellen Tohn agreed to sign a letter of support for a Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness application covering green stormwater infrastructure near Dudley Pond, where DPW plans a vegetated buffer and demonstration walkway. Sustainability Coordinator Olivia Lizardo said the town will pursue up to $7,500 through MassEVIP for a fully electric facilities work van plus Green Communities funds for a non-public charger at the public safety building, comparing Blink's 16-kilowatt ports with existing 6.6-kilowatt ChargePoint units. Facilities and Sustainability Manager Julie Gagen said a $2 million Green Schoolworks request faces brutal odds — $120 million in requests against $19 million available. Finance Committee member William Huss pressed for a grants log, saying "a million dollars might be the difference between doing a two and a half override and not." The committee approved February minutes 4-0.